TLDR Glyoxylic acid straighteners cause more protein loss but have similar hair strength effects as traditional alkaline straighteners.
This study compared the effects of glyoxylic acid and traditional alkaline straighteners (sodium hydroxide, guanidine hydroxide, and ammonium thioglycolate) on hair fibers. Glyoxylic acid caused the most protein loss (3.5 μg/g) compared to untreated hair (1.12 μg/g) and other straighteners (2.5 μg/g). Despite this, the tensile strength of hair treated with glyoxylic acid was similar to that treated with alkaline straighteners. The study suggests that glyoxylic acid alters disulfide bridges rather than breaking and rearranging them, affecting hair strength. Application technique, reaction time, and reapplication intervals are also crucial factors influencing the results.
13 citations,
January 2017 in “Cosmetics” Different tests are used to see how hair care products affect hair, and choosing the right test is important for accurate results.
18 citations,
July 2015 in “Journal of cosmetic dermatology” Straightening and coloring hair, especially with sodium hydroxide, greatly increases protein loss.
23 citations,
June 2014 in “International Journal of Cosmetic Science” Glyoxylic acid is a safer alternative to formaldehyde for hair straightening and effectively changes hair structure.
95 citations,
January 2007 in “Human biology” Human hair can be classified into eight types based on physical features, not ethnicity.
4 citations,
January 2021 in “Skin appendage disorders” Hair straightening can damage hair and pose health risks, including exposure to carcinogens and hair loss.
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August 2015 in “Anais Brasileiros de Dermatologia” Black women's unique hair characteristics and styling practices can lead to specific scalp conditions, which require early diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
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January 2022 in “Anais brasileiros de dermatologia/Anais Brasileiros de Dermatologia” Chemical hair straighteners can cause scalp and hair damage, but long-term effects are unclear.
193 citations,
January 2015 in “International journal of trichology” Dermatologists need to understand hair products to treat hair and scalp issues better.
73 citations,
October 2013 in “International Journal of Cosmetic Science” Chemical hair straightening can damage hair and health, needing safer alternatives and stricter regulations.
